NFL Power Rankings Week 17: Nobody Wants to Make the Playoffs
By Dean Holden
SLR’s Week 17 NFL Power Rankings: 32-25 Dec 22, 2013; San Diego, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Matt McGloin (14) is hit by San Diego Chargers safety Eric Weddle (32) on a pass play during the second half at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
32. Houston Texans (2-13) NC
Credit goes to the Texans for hanging with the far superior Broncos for more than a half of football. They would have gotten a lot more credit had they actually held up for all four quarters instead of just delaying the eventual blowout.
31. Washington Redskins (3-12) NC
For the second consecutive week, the Redskins have lost by a point with Kirk Cousins under center. So… is this a good audition for Cousins then, or…?
30. Atlanta Falcons (4-11) NC
That was actually a decent game for the Atlanta Falcons, considering they’re reduced to playing for pride. They lost by 10, but actually led the game at times, and didn’t lay down quietly. At least the Falcons are giving Tony Gonzalez that much for what has been an underwhelming farewell season.
29. Oakland Raiders (4-11) NC
The following link expresses my thoughts on the Raiders in image form. The 2013 Oakland Raiders
28. Cleveland Browns (4-11) NC
The really frustrating thing about the Browns is that they play well long enough to get people thinking they’re a decent football team, before letting it all fall apart. It’s like Browns fans fall for a cruel game of bait-and-switch every single week.
27. Minnesota Vikings (4-10-1) NC
So, just to recap. Adrian Peterson doesn’t play, the Vikings beat the Eagles in a blowout. Peterson does play, and the Bengals blow their doors off. Don’t worry, that’s more a commentary on the difference between the Eagles and Bengals than it is about Peterson himself. Might also have something to do with Leslie Frazier, not sure.
26. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-11) NC
That they’re playing as hard as they are says a lot about head coach Gus Bradley. That they’re playing as well as they are says they’re found some quality pieces and are starting to grow. That they lost to the Titans says they’re still the Jaguars, and have a long way to go.
24. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-11) ▼1
Mike Glennon is having a bit of a roller coaster rookie season, which is understandable. It has helped him that the Bucs have been playing for absolutely nothing for most of the season, because that has allowed Glennon to learn the ropes without having to answer for high expectations. If anyone will answer for anything this season, it’ll be Greg Schiano.